Kent County, Maryland, stands gracefully along the shoreline of the Upper Eastern shore of the Chesapeake Bay. A community steeped in history, nature, maritime, agriculture, and art, the County of Kent offers an array of experiences designed to delight the senses. From the chance to rediscover the depth of nature’s beauty, to the opportunity to engage with an art rich community, this is a destination that will infuse you with excitement for all the adventures that spring and summer promise.
Kent County has a rich agricultural history, as well strong traditions around working the water. As a result, farm-fresh food and straight-from-the-water seafood are the standard for a dining experience. In fact, locally sourced ingredients are found on many menus, from the wine and cheese shop in Chestertown to cafes to fine dining restaurants throughout the County.
Fountain Park on Saturday mornings bustles with Kent County farmers selling their fruits, veggies, wines, flowers, baked goods, and more–while artisans offer items from hand-made furniture to soaps and jewelry — all at the award-winning Chestertown Farmers and Artisans market. Harvesting locally also creates amazing wines and spirits. Nestled just outside of the town of Kennedyville is Crow Winery. In addition to wine tastings, this award-winning winery is also a vineyard, working farm, Farm Stay B&B, and is becoming well known for their many events.
Another must stop is Cassinelli Distillery and Wine Bar, and Bad Alfred’s located in Downtown Chestertown, where visitors watch as vodka, gin and brandy are made, and then the tastings begin — directly from the stills. The foodie in you will also want to consider visiting during Rock Hall Restaurant week, which kicks off with The Taste of Rock Hall in April, where you will find plenty of local food and fresh seafood dishes. Seafood so fresh that you may even spot a Waterman unloading his day’s catch from the stern of his vessel. That catch might be rock fish, clams, oysters and the famous Chesapeake Bay Blue Crab. Enjoy your ‘Sipping’ and ‘Savoring’ in Kent County. Just be sure to leave enough time for shopping, for you will not want to miss a single store.
From the whimsical shops and antique stores of Rock Hall and Galena to boutique shops and art galleries in Chestertown, you will find the perfect gift or something special for yourself. Whether you are looking for name brands, aloha shirts and dresses, nautical one of a kinds, fine arts and crafts or anything in between, you’ll enjoy old fashion, friendly service. No stuffy malls here. Designated an Arts and Entertainment District by the State of Maryland, Chestertown is home to an inspiring collection of galleries, studios, and creative events.
If spring has you dreaming of the sweet sound of music, Kent County can nourish your soul. This community is home to a variety of venues, like The Mainstay in Rock Hall, The Garfield Center for the Arts, and Washington College, both located in Chestertown.
This is also a great time to visit Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge. Just seven miles from Rock Hall, Eastern Neck Island, a protected habitat, is home to a wealth of wildlife and plants. This refuge offers diverse experiences including kayaking, bird watching, hiking, and biking. Walk along trails that lead to the shoreline of the Chesapeake Bay and the Chester River.
Be sure to book your stay in a historic inn, lovely B&B, hotel, vacation rental or campground; whatever your choice, you will find the perfect accommodation. Visit kentcounty.com/lodging to choose from more than three dozen lodging options.